Isuzu’s acclaimed D-Max pick-up truck has set a new sales record in Malaysia, surpassing the company’s previous all-time high. In 2023, sales reached 9,650 units, exceeding the 2022 record of 9,211 units by a significant 439 units. This achievement solidifies the D-Max’s position as a preferred pick-up truck, showcasing its impressive design and features that have resonated with customers.
The third-generation Isuzu D-Max, introduced in Malaysia in 2021, has consistently garnered high interest, attributed to its features, driving characteristics, versatile operation, and value for money. The model’s popularity has expanded Isuzu’s customer base, with conquest sales increasing by 185%, while retaining a strong core customer base.
The Isuzu D-Max lineup offers eight variants, catering to diverse customer needs, from the hard-working Single Cab to the sophisticated X-Terrain flagship. The 1.9-litre Standard variant, known for its modest engine displacement providing lower road tax and running costs, contributed significantly to sales, representing 28% of the total.
The flagship X-Terrain variant, known for its exceptional finish, sophistication, and impressive on- and off-road performance, has maintained positive momentum in 2023. Despite being a newcomer in the premium pick-up truck segment, the Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain has set trends, growing by 24.5% since its launch. It introduced class-leading features, including Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) and a generous 7-year unlimited mileage warranty.
The strong demand for the Isuzu D-Max has propelled the brand to the No.2 position in Sabah, Kedah, and Pahang in the pick-up truck segment, securing the No.3 position nationwide with a 16.6% market share. The model’s success underscores its widespread acceptance and appeal among Malaysian customers.
Ever since the latest generation of the Isuzu D-MAX made its debut in Malaysia in 2021, sales have kept growing. Already popular in its previous generation, the substantial changes in styling and more premium nature of the new truck attracted even more customers.
With average monthly orders much higher than for previous generation, it’s not surprising that the total number sold in 2022 was just slightly short of being double the number achieved in 2021. During 2022, Isuzu Malaysia delivered 9,211 units of the D-MAX nationwide, exceeding its original target of 8,000 units and eclipsing the previous record of 6,480 units in 2016. Given the disruptions to supply that affected the whole industry, perhaps the number could have been even higher if more vehicles had been available.
There was a time when the pick-up truck was seen as just a workhorse, a vehicle that was used in rough conditions and the important requirement was durability, not style. The manufacturers therefore made it simple, focussing on the engineering to make it lasting, and capable for tough tasks.
That image gradually changed and in Malaysia, it changed in the late 1990s when the law changed to permit ownership of pick-up trucks for personal use rather than business use. Overnight, a new segment was created and because of the go-anywhere capability of the pick-up truck, it became a popular choice for those who had an adventurous lifestyle.
And being a lifestyle vehicle also meant that it had to be stylish. Isuzu responded to this trend and today, its latest D-Max X-Terrain combines style with the ruggedness expected of such vehicles. No longer would be it embarrassing to drive a pick-up truck to a hotel lobby or have to park it some distance and walk to an event. Today’s trucks like the D-MAX makes a statement for their owners.
It’s therefore not surprising that Isuzu Malaysia has chosen to be associated with the KL Fashion Week (KLFW), now in its 10th year in 2022. The company is supplying the D-MAX X-Terrain as the Official Vehicle of the event which has the theme ‘The Bigger, The Better’ (which also seems appropriately related to the D-MAX).
Commenting on their involvement in the 2022 KL Fashion Week, Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer, Kenkichi Sogo, said: “With its cutting-edge design, superlative features and extraordinary go-anywhere, do-anything capabilities, the Isuzu D-Max is all about challenging the norm and allowing you to forge your fondest memories. Together with the KLFW, we aim to bring forward novel, imaginative and inspiring designs to share with the Malaysian audience.”
As the event’s Official Ultimate Lifestyle Vehicle sponsor, the D-MAX X-Terrain showcases a fresh dimension to its identity, one that hinges on its appeal as an urban vehicle and not one purely focused on its talents as a capable cargo-mover and dependable off-roader.
Being the flagship of the range, the D-MAX X-Terrain has a premium look and feel within, with high-quality materials used throughout. It also has a passenger car-like environment which offers comfort that would be expected of a lifestyle vehicle.
Standard are high-tech features like a 360˚ Around View Monitor and wireless charging for compatible smartphones as well as Android Auto and wireless Apple Carplay connectivity. The driver also has a host of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems to make driving safer as well as less tiring.
The D-MAX X-Terrain will be featured prominently at the KL Fashion Week which will be on from August 15 to August 21 at the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur in Bukit Bintang. Three units will be showcased – a Valencia Orange unit that depicts the truck’s fun and adventure nature; an Onyx Black version that highlights its stylish and premium side; and a Silky Pearl White unit which presents a sophisticated and intelligent character.
For car companies, volume is crucial to the success of the business. One way to get volume is to cover many segments of the market so the bigger companies will have a broad range of products to compete in almost every segment. Of course, the products must also be appealing and sell well too.
So it’s impressive that Isuzu Malaysia, with just the D-MAX pick-up truck as its primary product (plus commercial vehicles), it has been among the top 10 brands in Malaysia. In fact, since being established in 2005, the company has mainly sold the D-MAX which has been locally assembled. And with each new generation being improved in many ways, annual sales kept rising.
Despite ongoing production issues for the whole industry, record sales of the D-MAX were achieved with 1,233 units delivered around the country in March this year. That was the company’s highest ever monthly sales volume in 18 years, and a big jump from the previous record of 885 units recorded in December 2014.
Following the debut of the latest generation a year ago, demand for the D-MAX has continued at high levels and like other companies, supplies are still not as much as Isuzu Malaysia would like. Nevertheless, the orders keep coming in and although it is not yet in the middle of its production cycle, the company has added enhancements to its flagship X-Terrain which already has an impressive list of features.
“The new-generation Isuzu D-Max remains our source of pride as it bridges the gap between how pick-up trucks should perform and what customers desire. The flagship D-MAX X-Terrain, in particular, sought to ensure customers enjoyed some truly stand-out features that make their motoring safer and more pleasurable,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s CEO, Shunsuke Okazoe.
For the latest D-MAX X-Terrain, there are now two more exterior colours – Silky Pearl White and Onyx Black. These join Valencia Orange, the distinctive finish that makes the D-MAX stand out even more among other pick-up trucks.
Another key addition is the Around-View Monitor that provides a 360˚ view on all sides of the vehicle. Using small camera around the vehicle, the imagery captured in real-time is merged into a simulated image that looks like the camera is above the vehicle. The view appears on the 9-inch display panel whenever reverse gear is selected, and there is a 3D guide to help the driver maneuver and position the truck. No more white knuckles parking the long vehicle!
For those who have new smartphones that can recharge wirelessly, there is a charging pad in the D-MAX now. Apart from being convenient as no cable is needed, the phone can be left on the pad and kept charged while having uninterrupted Bluetooth connectivity for music or maps without draining the phone battery.
Isuzu Malaysia has also added a welcome light, which gives a touch of class. LED lamps beneath the vehicle illuminate the surrounding foot areas when the doors are unlocked. When used in tandem with the follow-me home lights, the driver and passengers can move around the vehicle at night confidently as the ground will be well lit.
Finally, exclusive lighted scuff plates are provided and not only help protect the sills from minor scratches but also offers an added touch of elegance to the D-MAX X-Terrain. What we also hope Isuzu Malaysia will provide again are those ‘stealth’ side steps which automatically slide in and out.
“The popularity of the Isuzu D-MAX range, particularly the X-Terrain variant, remains healthy with many first-time owners reveling in life with a modern pick-up truck. Its inspiring safety, comfort and go-anywhere, do-anything versatility has led to a gradual migration of saloon car owners. I believe that with these new added features and colour choices, the D-MAX X-Terrain will continue to appeal to many more who will be tempted to convert,” said Chief Operating Officer, Kenkichi Sogo.
The updated Isuzu D-MAX X-Terrain is available for booking from today at all authorized Isuzu showrooms, with deliveries beginning from mid-July. The revised price for this version is now RM146,938.40 (without insurance), which is slightly more than before.
In the late 1990s, licensing regulations for the use of pick-up trucks changed allowing them to be registered for private use like passenger cars. The development was very significant and gave Malaysians an alternative to the passenger car for personal transport. Furthermore, they were also not subject to excise duty due to the provisions of the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, allowing their prices to be lower.
The development was significant as it saw rapid expansion of the pick-up truck segment. Tens of thousands of Malaysians switched to trucks over the years, finding them to be great for many different roles – daily transport, leisure activities and as a workhorse for those who had a small business.
Isuzu Motors, having had long experience in pick-up trucks and light commercial vehicles, took serious note of this trend and began to adapt its D-MAX truck to be more suited for personal use. Of course, all the original attributes such as go-anywhere capability, efficient and reliable powertrains and robust engineering were maintained and improved with each generation.
The best of the best
Today, the D-MAX is in its third generation which was launched in April 2021. Without a doubt, it can be considered the best D-MAX ever offered and the ‘best of the best‘ would be the X-Terrain version which is at the top of the range.
The D-MAX X-Terrain would be the ideal pick-up truck for anyone who is keen to switch to the ‘trucking lifestyle’. For starters, let’s consider the interior: back in the old days, pick-up truck interiors were pretty bare because they were used only for rough work. So there was no point putting in good materials or even providing comfort – and certainly, there was no air-conditioning. The pick-up trucks them would have been unappealing even if they could be used for personal transport.
Step (or more correctly, climb) inside and you will find a cabin which would be comparable to a passenger car’s. There’s no bare metal around as all surfaces are covered with trim pieces or soft materials. The seats have been thoughtfully structured for comfort with generous padding and good support. For enhanced comfort the seat cushion pads also feature Anti Vibration Elastic Comfort foam that can absorb vibrations more quickly than conventional cushion material.
The same convenience
You won’t miss anything that you had in your car when you move to a D-MAX X-Terrain because all the same convenience and connectivity features are present. The windows open and close at the touch of a switch and 9-inch display screen serves as a control centre for the infotainment system. You can transfer your favourite apps onto the system and access them from there using Apple Carplay or Android Auto, or Bluetooth connectivity. Voice commands can also be used for handsfree operation, making driving safer.
And yes, there is air-conditioning and it’s as efficient as the one you would have had in your car. Dual-zone distributions brings cool air throughout the cabin and there are also vents for the rear passengers to stay cool. The driver and front passenger car set their own preferred temperature or the system can be left on AUTO and keep the environment cool and comfortable.
Even for those who are not drivers, the transition from passenger car to the D-MAX X-Terrain will be seamless as the rear seats are just as comfortable. There are lots of storage spaces for devices and small stuff, and there are even hidden compartments under the seats to keep an iPad or other belongings out of sight.
Smart technologies
Other smart technologies also make the ownership experience of a D-MAX X-Terrain as easy as a passenger car. For instance, you can start the engine from a distance and run the air-conditioner to cool down the interior before getting in. There’s no need to use a key to unlock or start the vehicle and it will even lock itself when you walk away. How many cars can do that?
For the driver, the experience is also not much different from driving a car. In fact, the information on the instrument panel and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are more extensive than many cars in the same price range as the D-MAX X-Terrain.
But there is one thing about driving a pick-up truck which is advantageous and which a passenger car does not have – the commanding view. With the cab being higher, the seating position is also higher which gives the driver a better view of the road ahead. And for those who are intimidated by the length, a reverse camera as well as sensors in the rear bumper (also in the front bumper) makes parking easy and you’ll be able to slot into a parking bay without sweating.
ADAS makes driving safer
Just as comfort and convenience were not important in the old pick-up trucks, safety features were basic. However, with the D-MAX X-Terrain, the Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) help the driver to avoid an accident or lessen the damaging effects of a collision. The driver’s workload is also lessened because, with Adaptive Cruise Control, the vehicle can be left to cruise at a set speed with a safe gap always maintained from the vehicle ahead. Even the headlights will switch to low beams automatically if there is a vehicle approaching.
Isuzu considers the safety of occupants equally important as those in passenger cars and has engineered the D-MAX X-Terrain to provide superior protection in the event of an accident. Apart from the tough structure, there are also various safety systems to helped the driver avoid accidents or reduce their effects. Thus, the D-MAX X-Terrain has been able to receive the maximum score of 5 stars in the ASEAN NCAP evaluation tests.
Comfortable and also powerful
The cabin may have comfortable seating but a truck is still a truck, right? It’s tall and bounces around on rough ground and the engine is noisy. That was how the old trucks were but with modern trucks like the D-MAX X-Terrain, the platform has been more carefully engineered not just for strength but also rigidity. Together with the comfort-oriented suspension, the ride quality is smooth and comfortable even when travelling over rough terrain.
With the 3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating up to 190 ps of power and 450 Nm of torque, the D-MAX X-Terrain can go just about anywhere – and briskly too. Apart from the tree-stump pulling power, it can also get to speeds well beyond the highest national speed limit and if you want to avoid getting a summons, Isuzu provides a speed-limiter to keep the speed at the limit.
Carries more durians than a car
Switching from a passenger car to the D-MAX X-Terrain can change your life because it will bring a whole new lifestyle for you and your friends or family. There’s a lots of space at the back to carry all kinds of recreational gear and you can certainly carry more durians or plants with a D-MAX X-Terrain than you could with any car (even a stationwagon). And because it has truck genes, the load-carrying capacity is also higher than a passenger car’s.
Reliability and durability are a given with Isuzu vehicles and to give peace of mind to owners, Isuzu Malaysia offers a 7-year warranty with no limit on mileage. This means that the owner can enjoy the full 7 years of coverage against manufacturing defects (terms and condition apply).
The best way to discover how easy it is to switch from a passenger car to the D-MAX X-Terrain is to test-drive one at an authorized Isuzu dealership. To find one in Peninsular or East Malaysia, visit www.isuzu.net.my and you can soon start your new trucking lifestyle.
Since its global debut, the all-new third-generation Isuzu D-MAX has impressed buyers and critics alike, attracting new users who have appreciate its impressive level of sophistication, comfort and capability.
Launched in Malaysia last April, the new D-MAX has expanded the brand’s appeal and reach. “Through the strong and bold design of the new model, excellent safety features and impressive comfort and premium SUV-like refinement, the D-MAX – especially the flagship X-Terrain variant – has raised the bar to be one of the most desirable pick-up trucks on the market today,” said Isuzu Malaysia’s Chief Operating Officer, Kenkichi Sogo.
Most popular in Klang Valley/Kota Kinabalu
Despite the acute shortage of D-MAX supply due to the global semi-conductor shortage, 713 owners took delivery of their new X-Terrain, making it the 2nd-most popular model in Isuzu Malaysia’s line-up. The versatile and highly capable 1.9-litre 4×4 Premium model also found 842 customers, especially in the Klang Valley and Kota Kinabalu. In fact, these two areas took more than half of the nationwide total volume.
The new X-Terrain variant has been regarded as a revolutionary truck, having redefined the landscape of the pick-up truck industry. It introduces new and higher levels of comfort, refinement and safety. Yet there is no compromise on Isuzu’s long-established qualities of versatility and overall dependability.
5 titles in less than a year
In less than a year in the Malaysian market, the new D-Max X-Terrain has received no less than 5 ‘Pick-up Truck of the Year’ titles. These have come from media titles such as Carplus, Carlist, DSF.my, Rider ATH and Wapcar, which picked the Isuzu as the worthy title-holder for its impressive ability to bring the pick-up truck experience to a whole new level.
“There were just so many ‘wow’ factors in the new Isuzu D-MAX that it was immediately the worthy choice. During our test drive of the Isuzu, we often wondered how a tough and capable vehicle like the D-MAX was able to be transformed from a rough diamond to be a brilliantly-polished gem,” an impressed senior editor said.
8,000 units targeted for 2022
With the momentum of strong demand expected to continue through 2022, Isuzu Malaysia’s priorities will be to address the backlog of supply in order not to disappoint eager customers. “Many customers have been patiently awaiting delivery of their new vehicles. We are hoping that the supply disruptions can be alleviated soon in order for us to fulfill the demand for this new truck,” said Mr. Sogo. “We expect that once supply is regulated, we will be able to double the deliveries and achieve our target of selling 8,000 units this year.”
The latest D-MAX range comes in a variety of variants suited to different requirements and budgets. Those who require a durable and reliable pick-up truck for work can choose the Single Cab variants. There is a wide selection of Double Cab variants powered by the 1.9-turbodiesel litre engine or the powerful and capable 3.0-litre powerplant.
To find out more or to have a test-drive, visit any authorised Isuzu dealer in Malaysia. Locations can be found at pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my.
Ever since the 1990s, Malaysians have come to appreciate the usefulness of the pick-up truck, a vehicle that is fine for town use, for weekend adventures off-road as well as workhorse duties. There have been many choices and among the popular ones today is the Isuzu D-MAX which officially goes into its third generation in the Malaysian market today.
To suit different budgets and requirements, there are no less than seven variants to choose – with double cab or single cab bodystyles, and two engine sizes. It’s all-new from the tyres up, incorporating new technologies for greater strength, reliability, efficiency and longevity… all the qualities that have made the D-MAX so popular.
“Isuzu engineers set out to create a stronger, more able and durable machine with this new model. They invested years in development and over 4 million kilometres in testing the new model to achieve the best Isuzu D-Max they have ever created. They then added the soft touches and high-tech features to satisfy the discerning owners who desire comfort and sophistication in their modern-day vehicles,” said the CEO of Isuzu Malaysia, Koji Nakamura.
Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform
Built on a new Isuzu Dynamic Drive Platform, the all-new Isuzu D-Max employs a new ladder frame that offers improved stiffness and strength to ensure and durability. The integration of the body structure, chassis, powertrain and suspension is balanced to work together as one for better handling. The new suspension configuration and a longer wheelbase allows the engine mass to be located further behind the front wheels, resulting in more dynamic handling and a comfortable ride.
All variants have a new distinctively bold and sporty outlook that has a more SUV appeal. The stylish appearance is functional too as aerodynamic efficiency – not usually talked about with such vehicles – is improved for the new D-MAX.
X-Terrain – the flagship
For those who want the most stylish pick-up truck, the new D-MAX X-Terrain variant will be the one to get. It stands out from the rest of the range with the Valencia Orange or Sapphire Blue body colour.
This new flagship variant comes with a revised 3-litre engine that has been re-engineered and refined with numerous advancements to improve performance and engine response while reducing noise and vibration. The engine produces 190 ps/450 Nm, with peak torque starting from as low as 1,600 rpm and available up to 2,600 rpm. The revised torque curve, together with a new 6-speed automatic transmission, optimises power delivery for any condition and demand.
Exclusive features with the X-Terrain include remote engine start, rear differential lock, wet wiper system, brown leather upholstery for the seats (which have 8-way electronic adjustment including lumbar support), and a 9-inch infotainment touchscreen panel with Android Auto/wireless Apple Carplay for easy smartphone connectivity.
Advanced Driver Assist Systems
The D-MAX X-Terrain also has Advanced Driver Assist Systems (ADAS) to make driving safer and less tiring. The active systems installed are similar to those found in the latest passenger cars. These include Forward Collision Warning, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, Turn Assist, Pedal Misapplication Mitigation, Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Manual Speed Limiter, and a Multi-Collision Brake system that applies the brakes should any of the seven airbags be deployed.
For less driving fatigue on long distances or at night, there’s also Adaptive Cruise Control with stop & go function and Automatic High Beams. The Adaptive Cruise Control maintains a safe gap with other vehicles ahead and can function down to standstill, reactivating when the vehicle ahead moves off. Automatic High Beams will automatically switch to low beams when there is an oncoming vehicle to avoid dazzling the driver, so the driver of the D-MAX does not need to think about it.
Two engine choices
Customers can have style and comfort without sacrificing the proven qualities of the D-MAX which is now not only quieter and more comfortable but also a tougher, more capable and dependable as well. The Premium 4×4 Auto variants – available with either a 1.9-litre Blue Power turbodiesel or the 3-litre turbodiesel – are ideal for those who spend significant hours behind the wheel. The new comfort features and safety equipment in the cabin will ensure that even if there are many hours of motoring, it will be fatigue-free.
For workhorse duties
For the price conscious, the two Standard models offer lower running costs with their good operating efficiency. Powered by the capable 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine with 150 ps/350 Nm and a choice of 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmissions, these variants will be highly effective workhorses in any business.
Also available are two Single Cab variants for those who have significant load-carrying requirements and want a go-anywhere, do-anything truck. There are two engine options – 1.9-litres or 3.0-litres – and like the rest of the range, safety is assured as the latest D-MAX has qualified for ASEAN NCAP’s 5-star rating.
All D-Max variants come with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty (whichever comes first) but for the X-Terrain, Isuzu Malaysia is giving an additional 2 years – and no limit on mileage travelled after registration. This class-leading warranty shows that there is great confidence in the long-term durability of the vehicle.
“This all-new Isuzu D-Max has found many new fans in all the markets it has been launched. It appears to be the case here too in Malaysia where we have received over 1,000 bookings – even before its official launch today. With the strong interest in the all-new Isuzu D-Max, I believe that our target of 6,400 units this year will be achievable,” said the COO, Light Commercial Vehicle Division of Isuzu Malaysia, Masayuki Suzuki.
Experience the all-new D-MAX
Until May 31, 2021, all authorized Isuzu dealerships will be having ‘The all-new Isuzu D-Max Breaking Boundaries Test Drive’ campaign. This is a great opportunity to experience the vehicle and during the campaign period, there will be exclusive Isuzu merchandise giveaways and a chance to win cash prizes. To locate a showroom in Malaysia, visit pickuptruck.isuzu.net.my/.